Jamin Janai Sanchez, a 16-year-old male of Hispanic ethnicity, tragically passed away on March 12, 2021, in Lubbock, Texas. He was born on May 11, 2004, and was known for his love of basketball and video games. Jamin was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witness and was remembered for his big heart and the way he cared for everyone he met.
On the day of his death, Jamin and three other juveniles were traveling in a vehicle near the Edge Apartments in Lubbock.
One of the juveniles recognized a 16-year-old walking near the apartments as someone who had recently assaulted a friend or family member. Jamin and another juvenile exited the vehicle to confront the suspect. An altercation occurred, but Jamin was not the primary aggressor. The suspect drew a handgun and fired several rounds, striking Jamin. The suspect fled the scene on foot, while the other juveniles fled in the vehicle.
The Lubbock Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit, along with the Texas Anti-Gang Center, identified the 16-year-old shooter and took him into custody without incident on March 13, 2021. The suspect was booked into the Lubbock County Juvenile Justice Center, and his name was withheld due to his age. The arrest came hours after police announced a $5,000 reward for public tips leading to an arrest.
The tragic incident did not take place within the premises of the Edge Apartments but on the sidewalk of the street parallel to Indiana Avenue. Jamin had no correlation with the property. The suspect was charged with murder, and the investigation continued to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Jamin's death deeply affected his family, friends, and the community. He is remembered fondly by his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and girlfriend. The community continues to honor his memory and the impact he had on those around him.
